Today, we're joined by the creative and innovative founder of Nopalera,  Sandra Lilia Velazquez. Sandra takes us on a journey through a powerful narrative of embracing Chicana identity, to  her band Pistolera, to crafting beauty products with the Mexican cactus, the Nopal,  that encapsulates Mexican heritage.  The Nopal cactus isn't just a plant; it's a testament to the untapped potential within Latino communities, as we, Latinos,  know how utilize the entire Nopal: From The pads, which have medicinal purpose in being cooked, to the yummy “tunas” the reddish/purple fruit that grow from the cactus pads that you can eat!   But Sandra’s mission for Nopalera is clear:  to be bold and worthy of luxury.  Together, we discuss how we can elevate Latino goods in the marketplace, much like the esteemed European luxury brands, and to ensure these products evoke the respect and value they deserve from consumers. It’s about self worth, as we clearly saw in her famous SharkTank episode, and her pivotal start up journey, where the challenges of learning the operational ropes with technology and trademarks, demonstrated her resilience in entrepreneurship.  Overall, she presents a passionate appeal to all listeners to support Nopalera's mission, by showing the power of customer advocacy in shaping a brand's success-We need to ask for the products where we shop, such as Ulta and Sephora, the higher end retailers where we see other European beauty and bath products.  We belong there too.  Sandra's story is one of resilience, identity, and the bold spirit of entrepreneurship to change our narrative.  If you would like more information about Nopalera, you can visit their website at Nopalera.co and if you would like to learn more about Sandra, you can visit her website, which is full of valuable information, you can go to Sanda Lilia Velazquez.com  Highlights: (06:57 - 07:23) The Ordinary Nopal in Everyday Life (09:40 - 10:41) Community Power Dominates Brand Influence (16:48 - 18:11) Latinas in Leadership and Ownership (21:08 - 22:06) Importance of Business Licensing and Trademarks (26:19 - 26:45) Cost of Learning the Hard Way (34:57 - 36:04) Empowering Latinas in Corporate Leadership Connect with Latinas From The Block To The Boardroom Website: www.latinasb2b.com  YouTube @Latinasb2b Join newsletter: www.latinasb2b.com Facebook: @Latinasb2b.marketing  Instagram: @Latinasb2b  X.com: @LatinasB2B  Podcast Executive production by Theresa E. Gonzales and Creative Design & Audio Engineered by Robert Lopez. To learn more about Latinasb2b.com and how you can work with us in a sponsorship opportunity, please contact us at info@latinasb2b.com.  Gracias.